Dublin City Council has confirmed plans to expand the use of automatic red-light cameras in the city, aiming to improve traffic law enforcement and reduce road accidents.
Following the success of a pilot scheme at Blackhall Place, additional cameras will be introduced at major junctions and bus lanes across Dublin within the first half of 2025.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) also announced that similar systems would be installed in Cork, Limerick, and Galway by the end of the year.
These cameras will employ Automatic Number Plate Recognition (ANPR) technology to identify offenders who run red lights, block yellow boxes, or illegally use bus lanes.
Fines will be issued automatically, easing the workload on An Garda Síochána.
Low-Cost, High-Efficiency Traffic Policing
The move aims to provide a 24/7 traffic enforcement solution without requiring additional police resources. Outgoing Transport Minister Eamon Ryan previously supported the initiative, noting that the automated system would “greatly save on resources” and streamline the penalty process.
The NTA is collaborating with the Road Safety Authority (RSA) to explore a nationwide Camera Enforcement System for various road offences.
Advocates Praise Life-Saving Potential
Leo Lieghio, a board member of the Irish Road Victims’ Association, praised the plan as a “good first step” toward saving lives. His daughter, Marsia, tragically died in 2005 after being struck by a car.
Lieghio called for broader use of technology to detect additional offences, such as seatbelt violations and mobile phone usage while driving.
He cited examples from the Netherlands, where €20,000 cameras capture high-definition images of violations.
He also urged the introduction of GPS speed-tracking systems for repeat offenders and mandatory driving courses linked to speeding fines, highlighting other countries’ practices where victims’ families share personal stories to raise awareness of the consequences of reckless driving.
Road Deaths and Traffic Statistics
Despite a slight decline in fatalities, road safety remains a significant concern.
According to Garda data, 174 people died on Irish roads in 2024, down from 181 in 2023. Dublin recorded the highest number of fatalities with 23 deaths, followed by Cork, Mayo, and Donegal.
The first red-light camera was installed at Blackhall Place in 2015 under then-Transport Minister Paschal Donohoe. Over six months, it detected 813 violations, resulting in no successful court appeals. Each camera costs approximately €30,000.
Authorities encountered challenges in coordination due to different camera types and multiple operators when considering a broader rollout.
While the locations for new cameras remain undisclosed, Gardaí confirmed ongoing discussions with the NTA to finalise operational details.
Penalties for red-light offences include three penalty points and fines starting at €80, rising to €120 if unpaid within 28 days.
This latest initiative marks a significant step in modernizing traffic enforcement in Ireland, with hopes that the expanded camera network will enhance road safety and prevent further tragedies.
